Expandable reamer apparatus for enlarging subterranean boreholes and methods of use

US7549485B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Baker Hughes Holdings LLC · US

Inventors

• Steven R. Radford · Diemelstraße, US
• Kelly D. Ireland · Diemelstraße, US
• Robert A. Laing · Conroe, US
• Daryl L. Pritchard · Diemelstraße, US
• James L. Overstreet · Tomball, US
• Greg W. Presley · Oklahoma City, US
• Scott Shiquiang Shu · Spring, US
• Mark E. Anderson · Portland, US
• Mathias Mueller · Munich, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 30, 2004
• Grant date: Jun 23, 2009
• Expiry date: Apr 9, 2025

Classification

• Technology area (CPC E): Fixed Constructions
• CPC primary: E21B2200/06
• WIPO field: Civil engineering
• WIPO sector: Other fields

Abstract

An expandable reamer apparatus and methods for reaming a borehole are disclosed, including at least one laterally movable blade carried by a tubular body selectively positioned at an inward position and an expanded position. The at least one laterally movable blade, held inwardly by at least one blade-biasing element, may be forced outwardly by drilling fluid selectively allowed to communicate therewith or by at least one intermediate piston element. For example, an actuation sleeve may allow communication of drilling fluid with the at least one laterally movable blade in response to an actuation device being deployed within the drilling fluid. Alternatively, a chamber in communication with an intermediate piston element in structural communication with the at least one laterally movable blade may be pressurized by way of a movable sleeve, a downhole turbine, or a pump.